União Biological Reserve, Biological reserve in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
União Biological Reserve is a protected area spanning roughly 7,800 hectares across three municipalities that safeguards a section of the Atlantic Forest. The land features different forest zones, waterways, and natural habitats that provide shelter for a wide range of plants and animals.
The area was originally a private estate called União Farm owned by a prominent family in Brazilian politics. In the 1930s the land passed to a railway company before eventually becoming established as a protected reserve.
The reserve functions as a working laboratory where scientists conduct fieldwork to study and protect the Atlantic Forest ecosystem. This research activity shapes daily life within the boundaries and demonstrates how vital this forest is for conservation efforts.
The administrative center sits along a major highway where regular bus services connect the municipalities in the region. Visitors should know this is an active research reserve, so access may be limited depending on ongoing work in the area.
The forest within the reserve contains the highest variety of plant species among all similar protected areas in the region. This exceptional biological richness makes it a particularly valuable place for understanding the Atlantic Forest.
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